Protective interface device with complementary case, stand and satchel

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a sanitary interface device that provides safety and mitigates risk associated with the spread of disease and illness (e.g., viruses) resulting from human contact with potentially contaminated objects such as a handle. The interface device includes a rigid, U-shaped body having a curved portion and a pair of legs projecting therefrom. The curved portion interfaces with the potentially contaminated handle, while the pair of legs shield a user&#39;s hands from the handle. The interface device can be portable and reusable, while being adapted for use as part of a kit which could also include accessories, such as a case, stand and/or satchel.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/990,785 filed Mar. 17, 2020, and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 63/019,169 filed May 1, 2020, and is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No.29/754,380 filed Oct. 9, 2020, which application is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No.29/732,915, filed Apr. 28, 2020 (now abandoned), the collectivedisclosures of all of which applications are incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to health and safety products. Moreparticularly, it relates to adapters, in the form of a handle grip, andaccessories therefor that an individual can use to minimize thepotential for contact with surfaces potentially supporting germs and/orpathogens, or that are otherwise potentially contaminated.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In recent years, an increased emphasis on public health has been seen.The threats of bioterrorism and pandemics have brought health and safetyconcerns to the forefront of public perception. To combat these threats,a variety of consumer products have been developed. For example, gloves,disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizers, anti-microbial soaps and the likehave been used to prevent the spread of potential pathogens, such asviruses and bacteria. These conventional protective measures are (i)generalized, (ii) require application for every interaction in order tobe even somewhat effective and (iii) possess undesirable characteristicsthat are not readily apparent to the average user.

To be effective, many disinfectants must remain wet on the surface forup to 15 minutes. Ignorant and impatient users often apply thedisinfectant to the contaminated surface, immediately wipe it dry andthen contact the still contaminated surface with food, medications, ortheir body.

Contaminated gloves are typically disposed of, rather than cleaned. Ahidden shortcoming with disposable gloves comes when the gloves arebeing removed and the snapping action of the rubber sprays thecontamination onto the user's face, eyes, and other unprotected areas.

The foregoing shortcomings of the prior art discussed above becomeespecially problematic during public health crises such as theaforementioned pandemics. Hence, there exists a need for products thatdirectly address the points of contact that pose the most risk of injuryor transmission of disease and illness.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a protective interface device that is adaptedspecifically for minimizing risks associated with public or sharedobjects that offer the possibility of being contaminated with pathogens,viruses, bacteria, or chemical, biological or radioactive contaminants.In use, the device inhibits a user's direct manual contact with thehandles of conventional shopping carts, material carts, luggage handles,jail cell doors, briefcases, gym bags, tubular door handles,refrigerated beverage cases, shopping baskets, etc. The presentinvention can also be used on ships to open doors, or on planes tomanage tray tables or open and close overhead compartments.

In various embodiments, the invention involves single layer ormulti-layer interface devices in the form of a handle grip configured tocover, at least partially, a handle or other object that may becontaminated. The handle grip is multi-positionable and adapted forinterchangeable use with a plurality of different handles. Anopen-ended, trough-like shape, in one particular embodiment, enables theinterface device (i.e., handle grip) to be applied to potentiallycontaminated objects (e.g., the handles of shopping carts, materialcarts, luggage and shopping baskets) in a “top-grip” position, a“bottom-grip” position or a “side-grip” position, depending upon thetype of handle the device is applied to. As used above and throughoutthis application, the terms “interface device” and “handle grip” aresynonymous and therefore interchangeable for purposes of describing thepresent invention.

Whether applied in a “top-grip” position, a “bottom-grip” position or a“side-grip” position, the interface device has, in one particularembodiment, a generally “U”-shaped outer surface which can besubstantially rigid or flexible, but in either case adapted andconfigured to be gripped by the hand or hands of a user. For thepurposes of the present application, “substantially rigid” will refer toa handle grip, or its material, that is resistant to deformation andsubstantially retains its original shape in operation and typical use. Agenerally “U”-shaped inner surface of the device can be rigid orflexible, but in either case adapted and configured to directly engagethe potentially contaminated object, such as a shopping cart, materialcart, luggage, or shopping basket handle. The interface device has awall thickness, measured between the outer and inner surfaces,sufficient to create a barrier or buffer between the user's hand orhands and the potentially contaminated object, whereby the user's handor hands do not need to come into direct contact with such object.

In one embodiment, the handle grip has a central body having an outersurface that is grippable by a user, and an inner surface configured tobe at least partially contactable with a potentially contaminated handleor other potentially contaminated surface. The outer and inner surfacesare defined by a pair of substantially straight and substantiallyparallel legs extending from opposite sides of a central body sectionbridging between the legs. “Substantially straight” and “substantiallyparallel” properties are defined by lack of visible angles or bends andgeneral symmetry in the legs relative to the body, respectively.

With the foregoing definitions in mind, the legs of the aforementionedhandle grip are spaced apart along their entire lengths and terminateremote from the central body section in non-deflectable free ends whichcooperate to define an open mouth of a predetermined, substantiallyfixed dimension (i.e., lateral width) selected to permit the handle gripto be applied to and removed from a potentially contaminated handle by auser without wrapping the legs around the contaminated object, andwithout increasing or decreasing the dimension of the mouth especiallyduring removal. In other words, the non-deflectable free ends do notmove relative to one another when the interface device makes contactwith a potentially contaminated surface. In an embodiment, the lengthsof the legs are selected so as to inhibit a user and/or third party fromcontacting the potentially contaminated handle to which the handle gripis applied. Put another way, the legs have lengths which position theopen mouth distal to (i.e., remote from) the potentially contaminatedhandle, thereby inhibiting a user from contacting the potentiallycontaminated inner surface of the handle grip with his or her hands whenapplying the handle grip to, or removing the handle grip from, thepotentially contaminated handle or other surface. In other words, thelengths of the handle grip's legs and consequent remote positioning ofthe handle grip's open mouth cooperate to protect a user frominadvertently contacting not only the potentially contaminated handle,but also the potentially contaminated inner surface of the handle gripitself especially during removal.

In use, the interface device may be applied to a horizontally-orientedhandle such that the mouth of the handle grip is in a downward facingorientation, whereby the handle grip itself is in a “top-grip” position.The interface device is designed such that it can be applied to otherhorizontally-oriented handles with its mouth in an upward facingorientation, whereby the handle grip itself is in a “bottom-grip”position. The interface device can also be applied to avertically-oriented handle such that its mouth is in a sideways facingorientation, whereby the handle grip itself is in a “side-grip”position.

The interface device may be adapted for use with acarrying/storage/treatment case, which itself can be adapted to envelopthe interface device, especially the embodiment having the unique“U”-shaped cross-sectional configuration. In other words, the case canbe configured to removably receive the handle grip. Once the device isstowed therein and the case is closed, such as by shutting a lid at anopen end, the case provides a protective barrier between a potentiallycontaminated interface device and a user's hands or the hands of thirdparties. The case can be adapted to contain disinfectant or othercleaning means in order to sanitize or otherwise treat a contaminateddevice placed therein. To enhance such cleaning functionality, the lidor other sealing means can be provided with a fluid-tight seal.

The case and interface device are adapted to cooperate with aspecialized stand configured to receive one or more cases that maycontain either a contaminated or sanitized interface device. The standmay be portable for added convenience. For instance, the stand can havea docking station configured to receive a case adapted to store handlegrips. In another embodiment, the stand has a receptacle configured toremovably receive an end of said case such that said case is maintainedin a generally upright orientation when the case is received in thestand. Together with the case and stand, the handle grip can form anassociated kit. Alternatively, the handle grip(s) and case couldconstitute a kit by themselves.

In certain embodiments, an ultraviolet radiation (UV) source is includedin the stand to sanitize, disinfect or otherwise treat a handle gripcontained in an associated case, which can be simultaneously sanitized,disinfected or otherwise treated by the UV source. The source ofultraviolet radiation can also be configured to be positionable betweenthe legs of a U-shaped handle grip contained within a case which isdocked or otherwise received in the stand.

The handle grip(s), case(s) and/or stand(s) described hereinabove can beused separately or sold and used as a set or kit. In one embodiment,multiple handle grips can constitute a kit. In another embodiment,handles of varying sizes can constitute the kit, including handle gripswith a first length (e.g., elongated handle grips) and handle grips witha second length (e.g., non-elongated handle grips) shorter than thefirst length. In another embodiment, the kit comprises one or more casesand one or more handle grips. In a further embodiment, the kit cancomprise a case, a stand and one or more handle grips. The kit's handlegrip, case and stand can be used in cooperation with a decontaminationagent, which can be any compound or means (e.g., chemicals or radiation)by which the kit components can be cleansed, sanitized, decontaminatedand/or otherwise treated. Needless to say, the handle grip and the casemust be compatible with the decontamination agent, for the purposes ofsafety. In yet another embodiment, a satchel for the case or cases canbe provided as part of any of the aforementioned kits that employ atleast one case.

In one embodiment, a non-contact method for a user to interface with apotentially contaminated surface using the aforementioned kit(s)involves, for example, the steps of inserting the handle grip into theinterior chamber of the case; treating the handle grip with adecontamination agent while the handle grip is in the case; removing thehandle grip from the case after the handle grip has been treated;placing the treated handle grip on a potentially contaminated surface;removing the treated handle grip from the potentially contaminatedsurface, the handle grip thereby being potentially contaminated; stowingthe potentially contaminated handle grip in the case; and re-treatingthe handle grip with a decontamination agent while the handle grip is inthe case. The treatment and re-treatment steps may be performed in thecase's interior chamber, whereby the case's interior chamber is treatedsimultaneously together with any and all handle grips contained therein.

In a further embodiment, a non-contact method for a user to interfacewith a potentially contaminated surface using the aforementioned kit(s)involves, for example, the steps of inserting the handle grip into theinterior chamber of the case; setting the case in a stand; treating thehandle grip with a decontamination agent while the handle grip is in thecase; removing the case from the stand after the handle grip has beentreated; removing the handle grip from the case after the handle griphas been treated; placing the treated handle grip on a potentiallycontaminated surface; removing the treated handle grip from thepotentially contaminated surface, the handle grip thereby beingpotentially contaminated; stowing the potentially contaminated handlegrip in the case; transporting the case to a location where the stand issituated; setting the case in the stand; and re-treating the handle gripwith a decontamination agent while the handle grip is in the case andwhile the case is in the stand. The treatment and re-treatment steps maybe performed in the case's interior chamber, whereby the case's interiorchamber is treated simultaneously together with any and all handle gripscontained therein.

Furthermore, in yet another embodiment, a method for decontaminatingpotentially contaminated handle grips using the UV-equipped standdetailed hereinabove involves, for example, the steps of placing apotentially contaminated handle grip in the interior chamber of a case;placing the case in the stand such that the interior chamber of the caseand the handle grip are exposable to UV radiation emitted from a sourceof the UV radiation; and actuating the UV radiation source for a lengthof time and intensity sufficient to sanitize or otherwise treat thehandle grip as well as the interior chamber of the case. To this end,the UV source can extend into the interior chamber of the case and belocated in proximity to the potentially contaminated handle grip(s).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference ismade to the following detailed description of various representativeembodiments considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an interface device in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention, the interface device beingshown in a “top-grip” position for use on a shopping cart handle, whichis depicted in phantom;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the interface device shown in FIG.1;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the interface device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is a lateral cross-sectional view taken along cross-section line4-4 of FIG. 2 and looking in the direction of the arrows, of theinterface device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 5 is a lateral cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, but showingthe inventive interface device positioned on a shopping cart handlehaving a diameter smaller than that of the shopping cart handle depictedin FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the interface device of FIG. 1, theinterface device being shown in a “bottom-grip” position for use on adual handle of a shopping basket, which is shown in phantom;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the interface device shown in FIG.6;

FIG. 8 is a lateral cross-sectional view, taken along section line 8-8of FIG. 7 and looking in the direction of the arrows, of the interfacedevice shown in FIGS. 6 and 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a shorter-length interface device inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention, theinterface device being shown in a “top-grip” position like the positionof the handle grip depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a carrying/storage/treatmentcase and its associated end cap (i.e., lid assembly) configured for usewith the handle grips illustrated in FIGS. 1-9;

FIG. 11 is a side-elevational view of the case of FIG. 10, with its endcap removed;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the case of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the case of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the end cap illustrated in FIG. 10;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of the end cap of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a stand configured for use incombination with the case illustrated, fully or partially, in FIGS.10-15;

FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of the stand of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is an additional side elevational view of the stand of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a further side elevational view of the stand of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the stand of FIG. 16;

FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view of the stand of FIG. 16;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing the case of FIG. 11 seated on thestand of FIG. 16;

FIG. 23 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the stand and case ofFIG. 22, the case being shown in combination with a handle grip like theone depicted in FIGS. 1-8;

FIG. 24 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 23, butshowing the case in combination with three of the handle grips shown inFIG. 9;

FIG. 25 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, depicted perspectively,of the case and stand of FIG. 22;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a modified embodiment of the standillustrated in FIGS. 16-21, the modified stand including a UV radiationelement;

FIG. 27 is a side-elevational view of the stand of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a top plan view of the stand of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the stand of FIG. 27 in combination withthe handle grip of FIGS. 1-8 and the case of FIGS. 11-14;

FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the stand, case and handle grip of FIG.29, the latter two components of the combination being shown in phantom;and

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a satchel configured for use with thecase illustrated in FIGS. 10-15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments will now be discussed in more detail referring to thedrawings that accompany the present application. In the accompanyingdrawings, various embodiments are illustrated. It is to be understood,however, that these embodiments are merely illustrative of theinvention, which can be embodied in various forms. In addition, thespecific features of the illustrated embodiments are intended to beillustrative, and not restrictive. Further, the figures are notnecessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated to showdetails of particular components with the understanding that sizes,materials and similar details shown in the figures are intended to beillustrative and not restrictive. Therefore, specific structural andfunctional details illustrated in the accompanying drawings are not tobe interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis forteaching one skilled in the art how to make and use the embodimentsdisclosed and illustrated herein.

Subject matter will also be described in the following text withreference to the accompanying drawings. The subject matter describedhereinafter may, however, be embodied in a variety of different formsand, therefore, such subject matter should not be construed as beinglimited to any of the exemplary embodiments described herein. Amongother things, for example, the disclosed subject matter may be embodiedin the form of methods, devices, components, systems and/or combinationsthereof. The following detailed description is, therefore, not intendedto be taken in a limiting sense.

Throughout the specification, terms may have nuanced meanings suggestedor implied in context beyond an explicitly stated meaning. Likewise, thephrase “in one embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer tothe same embodiment and the phrases “in another embodiment” and “otherembodiments” as used herein do not necessarily refer to a differentembodiment. It is intended, for example, that the disclosed subjectmatter includes combinations of the exemplary embodiments, in whole orin part.

In general, terminology may be understood, at least in part, from usagein context. For example, terms, such as “and,” “or,” or “and/or,” asused herein may include a variety of meanings that may depend, at leastin part, upon the context in which such terms are used. Typically, “or”if used to associate a list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A,B, and C, here used in the inclusive sense, as well as A, B, or C, hereused in the exclusive sense. In addition, the term “one or more” as usedherein, depending at least in part upon context, may be used to describeany feature, structure, or characteristic in a singular sense or may beused to describe combinations of features, structures or characteristicsin a plural sense. Similarly, terms, such as “a,” “an,” or “the,” again,may be understood to convey a singular usage or to convey a pluralusage, depending at least in part upon context. In addition, the term“based on” may be understood as not necessarily intended to convey anexclusive set of factors and may, instead, allow for existence ofadditional factors not necessarily expressly described, again, dependingat least in part on context.

With the foregoing prefatory comments in mind, what follows is adetailed description of various exemplary embodiments of a protectiveinterface device (i.e., handle grip) for minimizing inadvertent contactwith germs, pathogens and other potential contaminants. In one exemplaryembodiment, the device has a generally “U”-shape that permits the deviceto be placed on, under, or on the side of an object, such as a bar orhandle, which poses a potential risk of transmission of pathogens, suchas by virtue of being in a public space. In an embodiment, the device isespecially adapted for use with any object having a handle, includingbut not limited to conventional shopping carts, material carts, luggage,shopping baskets, or any bar-like object that a user can grab, pull orlift. However, it will be appreciated that other embodiments of thedevice can be adapted for use in connection with a variety of differentobjects, such as doorknobs, levers, push buttons, touch-sensitivescreens and the like.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, a protective interface device 10 (i.e.,handle grip) is shown in a “top-grip” position. The device 10 comprisesan elongated, single layer (i.e., monolithic) body 12 made fromshapeable materials, including paper, cardboard, wood, metal, leather,stiffened cloth, rubber or conventional polymeric compounds (e.g., PET,PETG or other chemically resistant thermoplastic). The body 12 possessesa generally “U”-shaped outer surface 14 adapted to be held by the useror otherwise come into contact with a user's hand or hands. The body 12has a pair of opposed ends 16, 18, each of which includes acorresponding one of a pair of guard-rails 20, 22, respectively, whosefunctions will be described hereinafter. A plurality of ribs 24 extendalong the outer surface 14 of the body 12 between the guard-rails 20,22. The function of the ribs 24 will be described hereinafter as well.However, it should be understood that the ribs 24 could also have avariety of different orientations relative to the outer surface 14 ofthe body 12. For example, the ribs 24 could extend laterally (e.g., at90 degrees) across the outer surface 14 (see, for instance, U.S. designpatent application Ser. Nos. 29/732,915 and 29/754,380, both of whichapplications have been incorporated herein by reference) or at any otherdesired angle. The ribs 24 can be made of the same material as the body12 or a different material. It is also possible to provide each of theribs 24 with a rubber overlay (not shown) to enhance tactile qualitieswhen the interface device 10 is in use, as will be described hereinafteras well. In another alternate embodiment, the outer surface 14 could berendered substantially smooth by eliminating the ribs 24 (see, forinstance, U.S. design patent application Ser. Nos. 29/732,915 and29/754,380, both of which applications have been incorporated herein byreference).

Referring still to FIGS. 1-3, a generally “U”-shaped inner surface 26 ispartially surrounded by outer surface 14. Inner surface 26 is adapted todirectly interface with the object of interest (e.g., a potentiallycontaminated object). Because of the nested design of the outer andinner surfaces 14, 26, respectively, the user is able to grip the outersurface 14 without touching or otherwise coming into contact with theinner surface 26 or the object to which the device 10 is applied. Inother words, the interface device 10 serves as a physical barrierbetween the user and the potentially contaminated object. In its“top-grip” position, device 10 is adapted to be placed over aconventional shopping cart handle 28 (shown in phantom in FIGS. 1 and4), via a loose fit (i.e., gravity), an interference fit or a frictionfit.

Regardless of the type of fit, the device 10 is sized and shaped suchthat it can be slipped on and off the shopping cart handle 28 in amanner described in greater detail hereinbelow. With particularreference to FIG. 3, its “U”-shaped, open-ended design provides thedevice 10 with a curved, crown-like portion 30 and a pair of straight,skirt-like legs 32, 34 depending (i.e., projecting) therefrom insubstantially parallel fashion. The curved portion 30 and the legs 32,34 are configured such that the inner surface 26 of the device 10contacts not more than half of the perimeter of the shopping cart handle28 (see FIG. 4), thereby minimizing the total contact area between thedevice 10 and the shopping cart handle 28 when in use. Regulating suchcontact area can be accomplished by selectively configuring the innersurface 26, especially in the vicinity of the curved portion 30. Forinstance, the curved portion 30 could have an arcuate shape, anelliptical-like shape, a curvilinear-like shape, a parabolic-like shapeor have a radius greater than the radius of the shopping cart handle 28(see, for example, FIG. 5), as well as having any othernon-complementary shape relative to the shopping cart handle 28 or anyother object to which the device 10 is applied. As a result, in certainembodiments, only portions of inner surface 26 are contactable with ahandle to which the device 10 is applied.

The cross-sectional shapes (i.e., profiles) of the outer surface 14 andinner surface 26 can be tailored to achieve a variety of designobjectives. For instance, when the inner surface 26 has a slightellipticity (see, for example, FIG. 3 of U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 63/019,169, which application has been incorporatedherein by reference), rotation about the shopping cart handle 28 will befacilitated. This is due to an inherent reduction of contact area, andconsequent reduction of friction between the shopping cart handle 28 andthe handle grip 10. Such a shape also enhances a user's ability toadjust the handle grip 10 to the angle of their preferred grip positionwhen the handle grip 10 is in use. In the case of the outer surface 14,a generally elliptical shape may provide superior comfort to a user.

The legs 32, 34 are spaced apart along their entire lengths andterminate remote from the central body section 12 in non-deflectablefree ends 36, 38, respectively, which cooperate with each other todefine an open mouth of a predetermined, substantially fixed dimension(i.e., lateral width) “W” (see FIGS. 3-5) selected to permit the handlegrip 10 to be applied to and removed from a potentially contaminatedhandle by a user without wrapping the legs 32, 34 around thecontaminated object, and without increasing or decreasing the dimensionof the mouth. In other words, the non-deflectable free ends 36, 38 donot move relative to one another when the interface device 10 makescontact with a potentially contaminated surface. In an embodiment, thelengths of the legs 32, 34 are selected so as to inhibit a user and/orthird party from contacting the potentially contaminated shopping carthandle 28 to which the handle grip 10 is applied. At approximatelocations 40, 42, the legs 32, 34, respectively, merge into the curvedportion 30 of the body 12.

By way of example, the inner surface 26 can have a first contactableportion configured to be contacted by the shopping cart handle 28, whichportion constitutes part of the curved portion 30 of the body 12, andsecond and third contactable portions configured to be contacted by theshopping cart handle 28, each of which portions constitutes part of acorresponding one of the legs 32, 34. The first, second and thirdcontactable portions can simultaneously contact the shopping cart handle28 to essentially form three tangential points of contact (see, forexample, FIG. 3 of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.63/019,169, which application has been incorporated herein byreference), or they can be independently contactable. As a furtherexample, the first and second contactable portions can contact theshopping cart handle 28 in one position of the body 12 relative to theshopping cart handle 28, while the first and third contactable portionscan contact the shopping cart handle 28 in another position of the body12 relative to the shopping cart handle 28 (see, for example, FIG. 5).

In an embodiment, the body 12 is elongated and the inner surface 26 hasa lateral cross-sectional shape that is non-conforming with respect tothe shopping cart handle 28. In this sense, the term “non-conforming”refers to a condition in which the device 10 does not deform, stretch orotherwise change shape visibly in response to its application to orremoval from the shopping cart handle 28. The device 10 can have alateral cross-sectional shape such that its inner surface 26 isconfigured to present a cam-like profile to the shopping cart handle 28to which the device 10 is applied (see FIG. 5). As shown in FIG. 4, thecurved portion 30 of the device 10 can have a radius that issubstantially the same as that of the shopping cart handle 28, therebyresulting in a relatively tight fit. The lateral cross-sectional shapeof the inner surface 26 of the body 12 can also be flat, for use with agenerally curved outer shape of a handle to which the device 10 isapplied, or the inner surface 26 could be generally curved (as shown inFIGS. 3-5, for instance) for use with a flat handle (not shown). Asshown in FIGS. 1-8, the body 12 and both its outer and inner surfaces14, 26, respectively, can have lateral cross-sectional shapes that aregenerally U-shaped.

To inhibit a user's fingers from wrapping around the device 10 andcontacting the bottom exposed surface of the shopping cart handle 28,legs 32, 34 of the body 12 have a length sufficient to allow them toperform a shielding function. This shielding function is alsoaccomplished in that legs 32, 34 are adapted to engage a portion of theshopping cart adjacent its shopping cart handle 28 upon rotation of thedevice 10 about the shopping cart handle 28, thereby inhibitinginadvertent or accidental removal of the device 10 from the shoppingcart handle 28. Needless to say, the legs 32, 34 are also designed toinhibit a third party, such as an infant seated in the shopping cart,from accidentally touching the exposed, potentially contaminated bottomsurface of the shopping cart handle 28.

The legs 32, 34 also function to lower the center of gravity of thedevice 10, thereby enhancing its stability when applied to, forinstance, the shopping cart handle 28 and inhibiting its inadvertent oraccidental removal therefrom when in its “top-grip” position. When thehandle grip 10 has a center of gravity that is below center line “C”(see FIG. 4) of shopping cart handle 28, or below the potentiallycontaminated surface in general, this function will be facilitated.Specifically, if rotated, either intentionally or inadvertently, thehandle grip 10 would be biased back toward a “top-grip” position,thereby inhibiting accidental removal of the handle grip 10 from theshopping cart handle 28. The center of gravity can be regulated, by wayof example, through mass distribution (e.g., weights near the free ends36, 38 of the legs 32, 34, respectively), variations of shape,variations in material, and/or variations in the thicknesses of thecurved portion 30 and the legs 32, 34 of the body 12.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, cross-sectional views of the interfacedevice 10 are shown. As previously mentioned, the body 12 of the device10 can be rotated with respect to the shopping cart handle 28. The body12, in certain embodiments, can also be movable in a lateral direction(see the arrows “A” in FIG. 5) and/or a longitudinal direction withrespect to the shopping cart handle 28 to which it is applied. Duringsuch movement of the device 10, but especially its longitudinalmovement, the guard-rails 20, 22 inhibit the user's hand(s) from slidingoff the body 12 and contacting the potentially contaminated shoppingcart handle 28. The guard rails 20, 22 also serve to protect the userfrom incidental contact with the shopping cart handle 28 by providing atactile “warning” to the user that he or she has reached one of the ends16, 18 of the protective interface device 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-8, the same device 10 of FIGS. 1-5 is shown,but in a “bottom-grip” or “inverted” position. Oriented as such, thedevice 10 is suitable for interfacing with shopping basket handles 44(shown in phantom in FIGS. 6-8). In contrast to the orientation shown inFIGS. 1-5, the device 10 would be placed underneath the handle 28 in a“bottom-grip” position, as opposed to the “top-grip” position depictedin FIGS. 1 and 2 in use with the shopping cart handle 28. To furtheradapt the device 10 to multiple uses, its dimensions can be selected toaccommodate the size and shape of both the shopping cart handle 28 andthe shopping basket handles 44 or any other surface with which the userwishes to interface. Regarding such other surfaces, a “side-grip”position of the device 10 allows it to protect a user when grippingvertically oriented objects, such as the handles on beverage cases orbuilding doors. Thus, the device 10 is useable with these and othertypes of handles when its body 12 is in an upright orientation (i.e., a“side-grip” position”), while also being useable with some types ofhorizontally oriented handles when said mouth is oriented upward (i.e.,in a “bottom-grip” position) and with other types of horizontallyoriented handles when its mouth is oriented downward (i.e., in a“top-grip” position).

When the user's interaction with the potentially contaminated object hasended, the interface device 10 can be removed and sanitized and/ordecontaminated for purposes of reuse. As the device 10 can bedecontaminated, unlike other forms of protection, the device 10 isreusable (i.e., not disposable). In other words, device 10 is portableand adapted for personalized use by a single individual or a family ofusers.

FIG. 9 shows a protective interface device (i.e., handle grip) 110,which is a shorter version of the handle grip 10 illustrated in FIGS.1-8 and described in detail hereinabove. Due to its shorter length, thedevice 110 is especially adapted for use with smaller handles, such asthose on doors or refrigerators. Elements of the handle grip 110 thatcorrespond to elements of the handle grip 10 have the same referencenumbers as used in FIGS. 1-8, incremented by one hundred.

With continuing reference to FIG. 9, a protective interface device 110(i.e., handle grip) is shown in a “top-grip” position. The device 110comprises an elongated, single layer (i.e., monolithic) body 112 madefrom shapeable materials, including paper, cardboard, wood, metal,leather, stiffened cloth, rubber or conventional polymeric compounds(e.g., PET, PETG or other chemically resistant thermoplastic). The body112 possesses a generally “U”-shaped outer surface 114 adapted to beheld by the user or otherwise come into contact with a user's hand. Thebody 112 has a pair of opposed ends 116, 118, each of which includes acorresponding one of a pair of guard-rails 120, 122, respectively, whosefunctions were described hereinabove. A plurality of ribs 124 extendalong the outer surface 114 of the body 112 between the guard-rails 120,122. Other features of the ribs 124, as well as their functionality,were described hereinabove.

A generally “U”-shaped inner surface 126 is partially surrounded byouter surface 114. Inner surface 126 is adapted to directly interfacewith the object of interest (e.g., a potentially contaminated object).Because of the nested design of the outer and inner surfaces 114, 126,respectively, the user is able to grip the outer surface 114 withouttouching or otherwise coming into contact with the inner surface 126 orthe object to which the device no is applied. In other words, theinterface device 110 serves as a physical barrier between the user andthe potentially contaminated object. In its “top-grip” position, deviceno is adapted to be placed over a conventional shopping cart handle 128(shown in phantom in FIG. 9), via a loose fit (i.e., gravity), aninterference fit or a friction fit. Regardless of the type of fit, thedevice no is sized and shaped such that it can be slipped on and off theshopping cart handle 128, or other smaller handles, in the mannerdescribed hereinabove.

In operation, two or more handles no can be used on a single shoppingcart handle 128 in a side-by-side or spaced-apart arrangement in orderto provide more coverage of the contaminated surface and more space fora user to place his or her hands. The handle 110 is also adapted for usewith smaller handles, such as those of baggage, briefcases and the like.

The aforementioned “U”-shaped, open-ended design of the device 110provides it with a curved, crown-like portion 130 and a pair ofstraight, skirt-like legs 132, 134 depending therefrom in substantiallyparallel fashion. The cross-sectional shapes (i.e., profiles) of theouter surface 114 and inner surface 126 can be tailored to achieve avariety of design objectives. For instance, when the inner surface 126has a slight ellipticity (see, for example, FIG. 3 of U.S. provisionalpatent application 63/019,169, which application has been incorporatedherein by reference), rotation about the shopping cart handle 128 willbe facilitated. This is due to an inherent reduction of contact area,and consequent reduction of friction between the shopping cart handle128 and the handle grip 110. Such a shape also enhances a user's abilityto adjust the handle grip 110 to the angle of his or her preferred gripposition when the handle grip 110 is in use, whether such use is on theshopping cart handle 128 or one of the other (i.e., smaller) handlesdescribed hereinabove. In the case of the outer surface 114, a generallyelliptical shape may provide superior comfort to a user.

When the user's interaction with the potentially contaminated object hasended, the interface device 110, like the interface device 10, can beremoved and sanitized and/or decontaminated for purposes of reuse. Asthe device no can be decontaminated, unlike other forms of protection,the device no is reusable (i.e., not disposable). In other words, deviceno is portable and adapted for personalized use by a single individualor a family of users.

In an embodiment, the protective interface devices 10, no can cooperatewith one or more complementary accessories that further promote safetyand sanitation. Although the devices 10, 110 described hereinabove canbe used separately, their use is the most safe and effective when theyare used in combination with each other and/or with the followingadditional components as a complete set/kit.

FIGS. 10-13 depict a carrying/storage/treatment case 210 that functionsto enclose one or more of the protective interface devices 10, 110 whenthey are not in use, thereby providing a further barrier between a userand the potentially contaminated inner surfaces 26, 126 of the devices10, 110, respectively. To enhance such cleaning functionality and toshield a user from the decontaminating agent and/or energy, the case 210has a lid 212 (see, especially, FIGS. 14 and 15) that cooperates with anattachment ring 214 adapted for placement around an open end 216 of thecase 210. The lid 212, which can be removable together with theattachment ring 214, forms a seal that is resistant to the migration ofdust, liquid and/or vapor when the lid 212 is in a closed position onthe case 210. Other lid designs (e.g., those disclosed in U.S.provisional patent application Ser. No. 63/019,169, which applicationhas been incorporated herein by reference) can be used as well. Aninterior chamber 218, which extends from the open end 216 to a closedend (i.e., bottom) 220 of the case 210, is configured to removablyreceive one or more of the devices 10, 110 through the open end 216 whenthe lid 212 is in its open position on the case 210.

In certain embodiments, the case 210 can function to decontaminate orotherwise treat a stowed interface device 10 and/or one or more of theinterface devices 110, which device or devices would be supported in aspaced relationship to the bottom 220 of the case 210 by a pair of rails222 (shown only partially in FIGS. 10 and 11, but in greater detail inFIGS. 23, 24 and 25). Such functionality could be accomplished throughthe use of chemical decontaminating agents (e.g., disinfectants,anti-microbial compounds, etc.), or through the use of energy sources(e.g., UV light or other electromagnetic waveforms) effective for theintended treatment.

The case 210 is compact enough to render it portable. For instance, auser could carry the case 210 from place to place by hand.Alternatively, the case 210 could be provided with an optional shoulderstrap (not shown) or belt clip (not shown), either fixed or removable,for releasable attachment to a user's belt.

By way of example only, the case 210 could be manufactured fromtransparent or translucent plastic, or from materials that protect theuser from the emittance of targeted radiant energy (e.g., an opaque casematerial or a lead lining). The case 210 could also be made from amaterial that permits marking with a user's name or other means foridentifying a particular user.

FIGS. 16-21 depict a stand 310 adapted to function as a docking stationfor the case 210. In the depicted embodiment, the stand 310 has a tripodconfiguration characterized by legs 312, three of which are shown. Thestand 310 is also provided with a well or pocket (i.e., receptacle) 314configured to interface with the case 210 (see FIG. 16). The well 314 isformed as a depression in a raised platform 316. In other words, thestand 310 in all of its potential forms described herein functions tohold the case 210 in all of its potential forms described herein. Thestand 310 can be a clip-on plastic component, or it can take a differentshape (e.g., hemispherical, cubic, etc.). The stand 310 can bemagnetized on one or more sides for use on unstable metal surfaces suchas on ships or planes. In certain embodiments, the stand 310 can beweighted to provide additional stability. Optionally, the stand 310 canalso accommodate decorative covers.

The stand 310 provides a convenient support and a storage space for thecase 210. FIGS. 22-25 show various views of the stand 310 in combinationwith the case 210, by itself, or in combination with one or more of thehandle grips 10, 110. FIG. 22 shows the case 210 (without its lid)mounted in the well 314 of the stand 310 in an upright (i.e., generallyvertical) orientation to form a case/stand combination. FIGS. 23, 24 and25 show cross-sections of the case/stand combination of FIG. 22.

With particular reference to FIG. 23, it shows the aforementionedcase/stand combination in further combination with a single one of thehandle grips 10 described above, the handle grip 10 being shown in thecase 210 which is seated in the stand 310 and the handle grip 10 beingsupported within the interior chamber 218 of the case 210 by the rails222. In a similar fashion, FIG. 24 shows the aforementioned case/standcombination in further combination with three of the handle grips no (asdescribed above, the handle grips no are smaller versions of the handlegrips 10 and therefore especially adapted for us on the smaller handlescommon to luggage, briefcases, tool cases, etc.), the handle grips nobeing shown in the case 210 which is seated in the stand 310 and thehandle grips no being supported within the interior chamber 218 of thecase 210 by the rails 222.

While FIG. 25 shows the aforementioned case/stand combination withoutany of the handle grips 10, 110, it more clearly shows the pair of rails222 running across the closed end (i.e., bottom) 220 of the case 210. Asdescribed above, the rails 222 maintain a spacing between the handlegrips 10, no and the closed end 220 of the case 210, thereby allowingthe stowed handle grips 10, no to minimize their contact with anyresidual liquid or other flowable decontaminating agents in the bottom220 of the case 210 until those agents dry.

The stand 310 can be adapted for use either at home or in any type ofland, sea or air vehicle. For instance, the stand 310 can be adjustableor otherwise adapted to fit in a conventional cupholder, whether infurniture, a boat, an airplane or a land vehicle (e.g., a car). In analternate embodiment, the protective interface devices 10, 110 can bedirectly coupled to the stand 310.

The stand 310 can include decorative LED lighting, whereby a tradenameor an associated decontamination agent or energy source can be spelledout for visual inspection. Further electronic or non-electronic (e.g.,mechanical) display means can display information regarding the statusof the system (i.e., the interface device(s) 10, 110; the case 210;and/or the stand 310), such as the current contamination state of theinterface device(s) 10, 110 or the status of the decontamination agentor energy source being employed within the case 210. To that end, atimer (see FIG. 26) or a sensor (e.g., a radiation exposure meter, notshown) can be integrated with the stand 310.

If electrically powered, features that enhance user utility can beincorporated in the stand 310. Such features can include speakers formusic, a communication device (e.g., interface means to smart speakers,a two-way radio, etc.), a night light, a security device andinternet-connectable devices for monitoring or controlling the statusand functions of the stand 310 as well as its associated case and/orinterface device (i.e., kit), etc.

The stand 310 and the case 210 can be sold individually (i.e.,separately), or they can be sold and packaged as a set or kit along withthe protective interface devices 10, 110. Whether sold individually oras part of a kit, the protective interface devices 10, 110 offer theuser the benefit of multiple applications without delay and withoutpossible contamination from its exposed interior surface (i.e., theinner surfaces 26, 126). By way of example only, using one hand only, auser can remove the interface device 10, for instance, from its case210, open a building door with tubular door handles, apply the device 10underneath the two handles of a shopping basket, and then, withoutreleasing or changing the device 10, the user can place a shoppingbasket in the cart (if the items to be carried become too cumbersome),relocate the device 10 to the cart handle, push the cart, slip thedevice 10 off the cart handle and use it to open a freezer door or arefrigerated beverage case door, reapply the device 10 to the shoppingcart handle, remove the device 10 from the shopping cart handle and usethe device 10 to exit a building without directly touching the tubulardoor handles, and then place the device 10 back in its case 210. Theaforementioned activities can all of be done in a continuous sequencewithout releasing the device 10 or touching its potentially contaminatedinner (i.e., exposed) surface 26. Upon returning to the user's home, orother location at which an associated stand (e.g., the stand 310) issituated, the case 210 can be placed in the stand 310 and the lid 212opened so that disinfectant can be sprayed or otherwise introduced intointerior chamber 218 of the open case 210. All of the foregoingactivities can be undertaken without touching the potentiallycontaminated inner surface 26 of the device 10.

When forming part of a kit, the case 210 may be provided as a pair foroptimal utility (i.e., one case for holding a previously decontaminatedhandle grip 10 and the other case for docking on the stand 310 fordecontamination). Like the case 210, the stand 310 can contain anelectric power source (not shown), either in lieu of or in conjunctionwith any compatible power source provided on the case 210. The powersource, if provided in conjunction with the stand 310, could function topower electronic elements on the case 210 (if any) and/or on the stand310 itself. To that end, the stand 310 could be provided with batteries,power from a receptacle, or power from a conventional electrical outlet.

In a modified embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 26-30, stand 310′ isequipped with a UV radiation source 318′, such as TEPRO CUH-18L UV-CLamp with a 2G11 base. When UV radiation is used as the decontaminationagent, a quartz glass or other UV transmissive material (not shown) maybe incorporated into the case 210 and/or stand 310′ to provide the UVradiation source 318′ with protection against physical impact. In orderto interface with the UV radiation source 318′, the case 210 can have anopening (not shown) in its bottom 220. Alternatively, a plug, latch,door or other mechanism can be used to selectively open and close thebottom 220 of the case 210. Alternately, the case 210 can also beinverted and placed over the UV radiation source 318′ after opening thelid 212.

When the case 210 is mounted on the modified stand 310′, the UVradiation source 318′ can be electronically actuated for the purpose ofsanitizing, decontaminating, disinfecting and/or otherwise treating thedevice 10 and the interior chamber 218 of the case 210 prior to furtheruse (see FIG. 29). For instance, the UV radiation source 318′ can beactuated via the coordinated operation of a disconnecting means (i.e.,plug), a timer 320′ and a proximity safety switch 322′ (see FIG. 28),which can be located on platform 316′ of the modified stand 310′. Thesafety switch 322′ also provides an additional means to avoid accidentaloperation of the UV radiation source 318′ when the case 210 is notcovering the UV radiation source 318′ to thereby shield the user from UVradiation emitted by the UV radiation source 318′.

Although an optional feature of the modified stand 310′, the timer 320′can be adapted to monitor, track and/or regulate any decontaminationfunctions performed by the UV radiation source 318′ associated with thestand 310′. In accordance with other optional features, the modifiedstand 310′ could include a power source (not shown) adapted to power anyassociated electrical or electronic features of the stand 310′ and/orits associated case 210.

Multiple stands can be used to hold multiple cases, or a single standcan be provided to hold multiple cases in the event the needs of morethan one family member or employee require concurrent use of more thanone of the handle grips 10, 110. Multiple stands, or a stand adapted towork with more than one case, may also be useful when different sourcesof contamination require different contaminating agents or energies.When provided as a kit, the case 210, stand 310 and one or more of thehandle grips 10, 110 operate to protect the user at all times throughinsulation and decontamination.

With reference to FIG. 31, the kit depicted in FIGS. 22-25, or the onedepicted in FIG. 29, can further include a satchel 410 adapted totransport one or more of the cases 210 (not shown) between a point ofuse (e.g., at a supermarket, big box retailer, etc.) and a destinationlocation, such as a destination where the stand 310 or 310′ resides. Thesatchel 410, which can be made from any suitable fabric or any otherconventional material commonly used to make backpacks, gunnysacks or thelike (e.g., canvas), has a closed end 412, an open end 414 and aninterior compartment 416, which is accessed through the open end 414 andis configured to receive at least one of the cases 210. The open end 414of the satchel 410 can be selectively closed by drawstrings 418, or anyother known conventional means (e.g., clips, buckles, latches, magnets,hook and loop fasteners, etc.). When pulled, drawstrings 418 collapsethe open end 414 of the satchel 410 to secure the case or cases 210inside the interior compartment 416. For a user's convenience, ashoulder strap 420 is provided on the satchel 410, thereby enhancing itsportability and freeing a user's hands for other activities, such as thehandling of handle grips 10, 110 as described above. In a similarfashion, the portability and handling of each of the cases 210 could beenhanced by providing it with its own shoulder strap or hand strap (notshown).

It will be understood that the embodiments described hereinabove aremerely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art may make manyvariations and modifications without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present invention. All such variations and modifications areintended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined inthe appended claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A multi-positionable handle grip forinterchangeable use with a plurality of different handles, said handlegrip comprising a substantially rigid, trough-shaped body having a pairof open ends on opposite sides of said body, which has a generallyU-shaped configuration, said body extending linearly between said openends thereof, said body also having an outer surface grippable by a userand an inner surface configured to be at least partially contactablewith a potentially contaminated handle, said outer and inner surfaces ofsaid body being defined by a pair of substantially straight andsubstantially parallel legs extending from opposite sides of a centralbody section bridging between the legs of said pair of legs, said legsbeing spaced apart along their entire lengths and terminating remotefrom said central body section in non-deflectable free ends,respectively, which cooperate to define an open mouth of apredetermined, substantially fixed and constant dimension selected topermit said handle grip to be applied to and removed from a potentiallycontaminated handle by a user without wrapping said legs there aroundand without increasing said dimension of said mouth, said lengths ofsaid legs are selected so as to inhibit a user and/or third party fromcontacting a potentially contaminated handle to which said handle gripis applied; and wherein said inner surface of said body extends in acontinuous, uninterrupted manner between said open ends of said body ofsaid handle grip.
 2. The handle grip of claim 1, wherein said body iselongated and said inner surface thereof has a lateral cross-sectionalshape that is non-conforming with respect to an outer cross-sectionalshape of a potentially contaminated handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 3. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein said lateralcross-sectional shape of said inner surface of said body is configuredto present a cam-like profile to a handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 4. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein said lateralcross-sectional shape of said inner surface of said body has a radiuswhich is larger than that of a handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 5. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein said lateralcross-sectional shape of said inner surface of said body has a radiusthat is substantially the same as that of a handle to which said handlegrip is applied.
 6. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein said lateralcross-sectional shape of said inner surface of said body is generallyflat compared to a generally curved outer shape of a handle to whichsaid handle grip is applied.
 7. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein saidlateral cross-sectional shape of said inner surface of said body isgenerally curved compared to a generally flat outer shape of a handle towhich said handle grip is applied.
 8. The handle grip of claim 2,wherein said lateral cross-sectional shape of said inner surface of saidbody is generally elliptical.
 9. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein thelengths of said legs are selected so as to position said mouth remotefrom a potentially contaminated handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 10. The handle grip of claim 2, wherein said body is movable ina lateral direction relative to a handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 11. The handle grip of claim 10, wherein said body is movablein a longitudinal direction relative to a handle to which said handlegrip is applied.
 12. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said body isrotatable relative to a handle to which said handle grip is applied. 13.The handle grip of claim 12, wherein only portions of said inner surfaceof said body are contactable with a handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 14. The handle grip of claim 13, wherein said inner surface ofsaid body has a first contactable portion configured to be contacted bya handle to which said handle grip is applied, said first contactableportion forming part of said central body section; a second contactableportion configured to be contacted by a handle to which said handle gripis applied, said second contactable portion forming part of one of saidlegs; and a third contactable portion configured to be contacted by ahandle to which said handle grip is applied, said third contactableportion forming part of the other of said legs.
 15. The handle grip ofclaim 14, wherein said inner surface of said body is configured suchthat said first, second and third contactable portions thereof aresimultaneously contactable with a handle to which said handle grip isapplied.
 16. The handle grip of claim 14, wherein said inner surface ofsaid body is configured such that said first, second and thirdcontactable portions thereof are independently contactable with a handleto which said handle grip is applied.
 17. The handle grip of claim 14,wherein, in one position of said handle grip relative to a handle towhich said handle grip is applied, only said first and secondcontactable portions of said body are contactable with the handle; andwherein, in another position of said handle grip relative to a handle towhich said handle grip is applied, only said first and third contactableportions are contactable with the handle.
 18. The handle grip of claim2, wherein said lateral cross-sectional shape of said inner surface ofsaid body is generally U-shaped.
 19. The handle grip of claim 18,wherein said body and said outer surface thereof have lateralcross-sectional shapes that are generally U-shaped.
 20. The handle gripof claim 19, wherein said handle grip is useable with some types ofhorizontally oriented handles when said mouth is oriented upward andwith other types of horizontally oriented handles when said mouth isoriented downward; and wherein said handle grip is useable withvertically oriented handles when said mouth is oriented sideways. 21.The handle grip of claim 1, wherein said handle grip is useable withsome types of horizontally oriented handles when said mouth is orientedupward and with other types of horizontally oriented handles when saidmouth is oriented downward; and wherein said handle grip is useable withvertically oriented handles when said mouth is oriented sideways. 22.The handle grip of claim 21, wherein said body has a center of gravitylocated such that said body is biased toward an orientation in whichsaid mouth is oriented downward when said handle grip is applied to theother types of horizontally oriented handles.
 23. The handle grip ofclaim 1, wherein said body of said handle grip has a one-piececonstruction.
 24. The handle grip of claim 23, wherein said body of saidhandle grip is formed monolithically.
 25. The handle grip of claim 1,wherein said body of said handle grip is made from a substantiallyfixed-shape material.
 26. The handle grip of claim 25, wherein saidsubstantially fixed-shape material is PET, PETG or other chemicallyresistant thermoplastic.
 27. A method of gripping a plurality ofdifferent handles without a user physically contacting any of thehandles, said method comprising the steps of: i) providing a handle griphaving a substantially rigid, trough-shaped body which has a pair ofopen ends on opposite sides of said body and a generally U-shapedconfiguration defined by a pair of substantially straight andsubstantially parallel and non-deflectable legs whose free endscooperate to form an open mouth of a predetermined, substantially fixedand constant dimension selected to permit said handle grip to be appliedto and removed from a plurality of different handles by a user withoutwrapping said legs there around and without increasing said dimension ofsaid mouth, said body extending linearly between said open ends thereof,said body also having an inner surface which extends in a continuous,uninterrupted manner between said open ends of said body of said handlegrip; ii) applying said handle grip to a first handle, which ishorizontally oriented, such that said mouth of said handle grip is in adownward facing orientation; iii) removing said handle grip from saidfirst handle; iv) applying said handle grip to a second handle, which ishorizontally oriented, such that said mouth of said handle grip is in anupward facing orientation; v) removing said handle grip from said secondhandle; vi) applying said handle grip to a third handle, which isvertically oriented, such that said mouth of said handle grip is in asideways facing orientation; and vii) removing said handle grip fromsaid third handle, wherein steps ii), iv) and vi) are not performed inany particular order relative to one another.
 28. The method of claim27, wherein said body of said handle grip has a one-piece construction.29. The method of claim 28, wherein said body of said handle grip isformed monolithically.
 30. The method of claim 27, wherein said body ofsaid handle grip is made from a substantially fixed-shape material. 31.The method of claim 30, wherein said substantially fixed-shape materialis a chemically resistant thermoplastic.